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Military Education News And Info

Stay up-to-date with news and information about your military education. You can get the information you need to make informed decisions about your online and military correspondence programs. Learn what's going on with military education and how you can make a smooth military transition. Your civilian career awaits you!

U.S. Military's Green Initiatives Could Save Up to $1.6 Billion Over Time

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

It's not just the troops' uniforms that are green: The U.S. military says its investments to conserve energy and water are beginning to pay off, with benefits for cost, national security and troop safety.

The Army has cut water usage at its permanent bases and other facilities around the world by 31% since 2004, according to Pentagon data. The amount of energy used per square foot at Army facilities declined 10.4% during that same period.

The data do not include the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, where increased troop levels caused energy usage to rise, but the military has several green measures in place there.

For example, the military has spent more than $100 million on "spray foam" insulation for tents in Iraq and Afghanistan, cutting leakage of air conditioning by at least 50%, says Tad Davis, the Army's deputy assistant secretary for environmental issues. The energy savings usually recover the investment within 90 days, he says.

The military's green efforts will result in at least $1.6 billion in savings through the projects' lifetime, says Joe Sikes, director of facilities energy at the Defense Department.

President Obama says the armed forces are investing $2.7 billion this year to improve energy efficiency. Improvements include: more energy-efficient lighting, low-flow toilets, heating and air-conditioning upgrades,and solar panels.

The military, which pioneered the gas-guzzling Humvee, was not always as concerned with conservation, says Kevin Geiss, the Army's program director for energy security. However, the Pentagon stated in its strategy review, published this year, that consuming less foreign oil and contributing less to climate change are critical to long-term safety.

"The Army's mission is not to be green. Our mission is to defend the nation. In that context, we've found it's in our interest to develop sustainable projects," Geiss says.

"The Army's mission is not to be green. Our mission is to defend the nation. In that context, we've found it's in our interest to develop sustainable projects," Geiss says.

Greater energy efficiency also helps keep troops in war zones safer, because it reduces the number of trucks on the road carrying fuel to outlying bases, Davis says. Truck convoys are susceptible to roadside bombs, the biggest killer of U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Other branches of the armed forces have also made progress, Sikes says. The Navy has set a goal of using 50% alternative fuels in vehicles, planes and ships within 10 years.

Scott Slesinger of the Natural Resources Defense Council says the environmental group "applauds" the conservation measures, especially since the Defense Department is the USA's biggest energy consumer. But he says the Pentagon still needs to address its "questionable environmental legacy," which includes toxic waste sites.

Source: usatoday.com.com/B.Winter

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 9:09 AM • 0 comments

Are You Getting the Most Out of Your Military Education Benefits?

Monday, March 29, 2010

One of the major benefits of being an active duty service member or veteran is the ability to pursue your educational goals without having to pay costly tuition fees. In fact, there are various resources and benefits that are available to you for the purpose of pursuing your education and transitioning to a civilian career. Here are some tips you can use to maximize your tuition assistance benefits:

Explore your resources. Since the choice of so many options can be overwhelming, trained professionals are available to help guide you through the process. For example, soldiers on active duty might want to look into the Transition Assistance Program which counsels service members through the transition back to civilian life.

If you are a veteran, the Department of Veteran Affairs will provide you with loads of helpful information regarding education benefits. They will be more than happy to meet with you in person, or you can visit their website if more convenient.

Know your Benefits. While most of us know that the military has a wide range of resources for military service members, the majority of us are not fully aware of all the programs offered.

For example, the Montgomery GI Bill provides veterans with the perfect opportunity to continue their education. As described in the bill, you are entitled to some form of tuition assistance (TA) in return for serving the country. The Bill offers enough flexibility so that you can use it for flight training, online education courses, a degree, certification/licensing and other educational pursuits.

Assistance for Eligible Family Members: If you have dependents, the military may be able to help eligible family members advance their careers through education as well. For the most up-to-date information concerning these programs, consult militaryonesource.com.

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 3:56 PM • 0 comments

Benefits Resumed for Military Spouses with Existing MyCAA Accounts - Funds Available for 100% Online, Portable Career Training

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

After a temporary pause last month, the DoD's MyCAA program resumed operations for military spouses who currently have existing MyCAA accounts, meaning that military spouses can use their benefits to get portable career training. Whether they're already an Allied student, enrolled with another school or have yet to choose an education provider, Allied Schools provides a military-friendly education that supports the career goals of military spouses nationwide.

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program was officially reinstated on March 13th, 2010 at 12 p.m. EST. Now, military spouses who have an existing MyCAA account once again have access to the entire Military OneSource website. The MyCAA program, which supports the educational pursuits of military spouses, provides up to $6,000 in financial assistance for preparation in high-growth, high-demand portable career fields.

"MyCAA provides an unprecedented opportunity for military spouses to get an education without the worry or stress of how to pay for it," said George Achenbach, president of Allied Schools. “We are very pleased at the return of this valuable program and look forward to helping military spouses get the education they deserve and provide them with opportunities that otherwise might not have been available to them."

Allied Schools has comprehensive, short-term courses that prepare students for careers in medical coding, medical transcription, pharmacy technician, real estate salesperson, small business management, and more. With 100% online career training in medical, real estate, business and emerging green technologies, military spouses receive an education that provides opportunities nationwide. In as little as 24 weeks, they can receive career-ready training that lays the foundation for an exciting career.

Military spouses benefit from Allied's online career-training programs because it allows them to attend class from any location and study according to their own schedule. The course materials are available 24/7 - they can log onto their course and complete assignments when they have time. The online education is also self-paced, allowing them to learn at an accelerated rate or keep a regular pace throughout their studies.

Allied Schools is proud to support today's military - the school helps active-duty military with their education goals and accepts 100% Military Tuition Assistance. Whether they are stateside or deployed, service members can prepare for a civilian career or receive promotion points for courses taken. Additionally, veterans can utilize their benefits at Allied and access convenient career training courses. Allied acknowledges the sacrifices military families make every day and participates in regular community Yellow Ribbon events.

To learn more about Allied Schools' military spouse programs, please call (888) 501-5221 to speak with an Admissions Representative.

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Posted by Heather Brunson @ 11:46 AM • 0 comments

TAP Tips for Translating Your Military Skills

Thursday, February 25, 2010

servicememberAre you nervous about transitioning from active-duty service member to civilian? Advanced preparation can make all the difference. For example, did you know that you can prepare for your civilian career while on active duty from bases worldwide?

Select a military-friendly online school that allows you to put your military schedule first, and you can begin your civilian career with credentials that enhance your military background.

When you are ready to begin your civilian job search, knowing how to translate military jargon concerning your rank and duties is key - especially if you are going to convince a prospective employer that you are the right candidate for the job. The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) offers valuable guidance on how to accomplish this task. Here are some examples directly from the TAP Manual:

Translating Your Military Strengths

1. Leadership Training
The military trains people to accept responsibility and give direction. You may have had responsibility for other people and their activities. You are trained to lead by setting an example and by giving directions.

2. Ability to Conform to Rules and Structure
In any organization there must be rules and structure to avoid chaos. You have learned and followed rules in the service. Companies value employees who will follow the rules and fit into the structure of the workplace.

3. Ability to Learn with Advanced Training
You received intensive, and often specialized, advanced training in the service.

4. Familiarity with Records
You are familiar with the need for records and complete paperwork. You understand the need to be accountable for everything you do.

5. Ability to Work as a Team Member and a Team Leader
In the military you worked in a team environment. You understand that everything you do affects someone else. You may have served as a team leader where you analyzed
situations and options, made decisions, gave directions, followed through and
accepted responsibility.

6. Ability to Work in a Diverse Group
The military employs all Americans regardless of race, gender, economic status, religion. In the service, you have worked with people of all backgrounds, attitudes, and characteristics.

7. Ability to Work Under Pressure and Meet Deadlines
In the military you must perform. You do your job right the first time. There is pressure and stress; if you fail, people could suffer. This attitude toward work is valued in the business community.

8. Systematic Planning
Most military operations require thorough planning. You must consider objectives, the strengths and limitations of others, resources, time schedules, logistics, and various other factors. You also assess progress during the operations. The ability to plan is highly valued in many civilian job settings.

For the complete set of tips for translating your military strengths, consult the TAPS Manual on www.military.com.

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 11:31 AM • 0 comments

17 Tips for Preparing for Your Next PCS Move

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

moving picture
Anticipating your next PCS move? Don't stress. Although your family and personal belongings may not be as portable as your online military vocational training course, these 17 packing tips may help make your next PCS move feel a little more seamless.

1. Plan ahead by organizing and budgeting. Develop a master "to do" list so you won't forget something critical on moving day, and create an estimate of moving costs.

2. Sort and get rid of things you no longer want or need. Have a garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle.

3. But don/t throw out everything. If your inclination is to just toss it, you're probably right. However, it's possible to go overboard in the heat of the moment. Ask yourself how frequently you use an item and how you'd feel if you no longer had it. That will eliminate regrets after the move.

4. Pack similar items together. Put toys with toys, kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils. It will make your life easier when it's time to unpack.

5. Decide what, if anything, you plan to move on your own. Precious items such as family photos, valuable breakables, or must-haves during the move should probably stay with you. Don't forget to keep a "necessities" bag with tissues, snacks, and other items you'll need that day.

6. Remember, most movers won't take plants. If you don't want to leave them behind, you should plan on moving them yourself.

7. Use the right box for the item. Loose items are prone to breakage.

8. Put heavy items in small boxes so they're easier to lift. Keep the weight of each box under 50 pounds, if possible.

9. Don't over-pack boxes. It increases the likelihood that items inside the box will break.

10. Wrap every fragile item separately and pad bottom and sides of boxes. If necessary, purchase bubble-wrap or other packing materials from moving stores.

11. Label every box on all sides. You never know how they'll be stacked and you don't want to have to move other boxes aside to find out what's there.

12. Use color-coded labels to indicate which room each item should go in. Color-code a floor plan for your new house to help movers.

13. Keep your moving documents together in a file. Include important phone numbers, driver's name, and moving van number. Also keep your address book handy.

14. Print out a map and directions for movers. Make several copies, and highlight the route. Include your cell phone number on the map. You don't want movers to get lost! Also make copies for friends or family who are lending a hand on moving day.

15. Back up your computer files before moving your computer. Keep the backup in a safe place, preferably at an off-site location.

16. Inspect each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it arrives.

17. Make arrangements for small children and pets. Moving can be stressful and emotional. Kids can help organize their things and pack boxes ahead of time, but, if possible, it might be best to spare them from the moving-day madness.

Source: www.realtor.org

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 3:36 PM • 0 comments

Armed Services YMCA Expands Child Care Services to All 50 States

Friday, February 5, 2010

child careLate last year, the Armed Services YMCA Respite Child Care program expanded nationwide. And for parents with deployed spouses, this program expansion is a huge benefit.

The Armed Services YMCA, as part of a Defense Department contract, provides health and wellness opportunities, including the Respite Child Care program, for reserve-component servicemembers and their families across the country through their local YMCAs.

The Respite Child Care program, part of that contract, provides up to 16 hours of child care for families of deployed Guard and reserve personnel.

According to Mike Landers, deputy national director of the Armed Services YMCA, this means deploying Guardsmen and reservists and their families are eligible for a full YMCA membership for three months before deployment, the 12 months of deployment, and three months after.

"The respite care was designed to be an opportunity for the mom, whose husband is deployed, or the dad whose wife is deployed, to be able to drop their kids off to just have a little peace and quiet, to go to the commissary, to go shopping, to do whatever they need to do," Landers said.

For more information about the YMCA Respite Child Care program visit www.ymca.net.

Source: www.cinchouse.com

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 2:19 PM • 0 comments

Military Health System Approves Move to EHR for All Service Members

Friday, January 22, 2010

Over the next five years, the Department of Defense's priorities for health information technology include the redesign of the Military Health System's IT architecture and creation of a robust electronic health record (EHR) for every service member.

The Military Health System's Information Management/Information Technology Strategic Plan was approved in mid-January 2010 with the main goals to update the system's enterprise architecture and develop a digital record for every service member.

The aim is to make digital records easily available to patients and provide "enterprise intelligence," which involves collecting, sharing and analyzing health data to improve the quality of care.

The plan strategically focuses on health IT governance and interoperability, such as developing a Virtual Lifetime Electronic Record in conjunction with the Veterans Affairs Department.

The proposal was developed in 2009 by military health system's Office of the Chief Information Officer as well as leaders in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Health Affairs, TRICARE Management Activity, Joint Chiefs of Staff and Joint Task Force National Capital Region. It will be reviewed on an annual basis.

DOD and VA are currently developing pilot projects in communities to advance the Virtual Lifetime Electronic Record collaboration.

With the entire health care industry making the transition to Electronic Health Records, the Military Health System is also following suit, with a goal of creating streamlined, electronic health records. With frequent moves and deployments, service members, military families, health care professionals and military personnel will have quick, convenient access to health records.

View the entire MHS IM/IT 2010-2015 Strategic Plan.

Source: Federal Computer Week, Alice Lipowicz, January 21, 2010)

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Posted by Heather Brunson @ 1:52 PM • 0 comments

New Photovoltaic Systems at Pearl Harbor

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Hawaii awarded a $15.2 million, firm-fixed price task order Dec. 30 to Niking Corporation, Wahiawa, Hawaii, to install photovoltaic (PV) systems on top of five Navy buildings around Pearl Harbor, including the Navy Exchange and Commissary.

"With the increased emphasis on renewable energy, this photovoltaic project will assist the Navy in Hawaii with achieving federal, state and Navy renewable energy goals," said Capt. Richard Kitchens, Naval Station Pearl Harbor commanding officer. "In addition, the utilization of renewable energy resources like photovoltaics will assure our energy independence and national security."

The task order is part of the Navy in Hawaii's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) efforts. It was awarded through a competitive selection of proposals submitted under a multiple award construction contract, and it provides for the design and construction of a grid-tied PV power system at Naval Station Pearl Harbor.

"The new photovoltaic systems are estimated to produce approximately 3.4 gigawatt hours of energy annually, which is equal to the annual energy needs of approximately 440 homes," said Kitchens.

Estimates indicate the new PV system will provide an annual avoidance of approximately 5,667 barrels of oil and 3,118 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. The carbon dioxide avoided is equivalent to taking 550 passenger cars off the road.

Niking Corporation is a Hawaii-based general contractor with more than 22 years of intensive building experience with the federal government.

"We are extremely excited to have this contract," said Niking Corporation President Robert L. King. "It will be good for our economy to have a local contractor execute this work, and we feel it will help preserve and create needed jobs here in Hawaii."

The PV project at Pearl Harbor is scheduled for completion July 2011. The contract task order awarded was $15,237,555.

The Department of Defense received $7.4 billion from the ARRA, which is less than one percent of the $787 billion total amount. The Navy in Hawaii received $124 million to modernize Navy and Marine Corps shore infrastructure, enhance America's energy independence and sustain a stead and robust maritime force for decades.

Source: www.navy.mil

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 2:54 PM • 0 comments

New Bill Helps Military Spouses Maintain Residency

Thursday, January 7, 2010

As a military spouse, you may experience frequent PCS moves. And although you can train for a portable military spouse career and move your business with you, not everything is as easily transferrable - like your residency. However, change of residency stress due to a PCS move is about to be alleviated.

On November 11, President Obama signed the Military Spouses Relief Act (MSRRA). This bill is an amendment to the 2003 Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. The amendment now allows a military spouse to claim residency in the same state as their spouse and retain that residency as long as their servicemember spouse is in the military.

There are certain requirements that must be met in order to claim residency in a state. For example:

-A spouse can retain the same legal residence as the active-duty servicemember as long as the spouse once shared that legal residency

-If a military spouse has ever been a resident of a tax-free state while married to the servicemember and is only absent from the state due to the servicemember's military duties, the military spouse can now regain that legal residency

-The spouse may only regain the right to claim the same state of legal residence as their military spouse if they had once established such residency

This is an exciting amendment, as servicemembers have had this privilege for over 60 years and now their spouses can enjoy the same benefits too. But, what exactly are the benefits of MSRRA? Military spouses:

-May keep residency in a tax-free state, such as Texas, Florida and Washington
-Do not have to change their driver's license, vehicle or voter's registration during a PCS
-Can avoid heavy paperwork associated with a PCS
-Can enjoy stable legal residence
-Will only have to pay taxes to their state of legal residency (since income earned by a spouse will now be treated the same as military income)

For complete details concerning the MSRRA, contact your local legal office and set up an appointment with legal guidance counselor.

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 10:34 AM • 0 comments

A Background in Green: Beneficial to Your Military Career?

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

You may not know this, but a variety of emerging green technologies, like renewable energy, are being utilized throughout the military. But, would a background in emerging green technologies benefit your military career? You decide. In fact, check out these facts for yourself:

- A report in the U.S. News and World Report notes that Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada currently has 70,000 photovoltaic panels working on 140 acres of land. The solar installation has reportedly allowed the base to realize $83,000 a month in solar energy savings with "trackers" - panels that follow the sun's movement.

- The Naval Air Weapons Station at China Lake, CA uses a geothermal energy plan and is a net contributor to the local commercial electric grid (source: Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists).

- The Army is developing hydrogen fuel cells and renewable energy hybrid-electric generators for use at forward operating bases and remote locations (source: Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists).

- In December of 2008, the Secretary of the Air Force, Michael B. Donely, signed the Air Force Energy Program Guidance Memorandum, which is the first time that the U.S. Military has created a comprehensive energy strategy that focus on increasing the use of renewable energy (source: renewable energy world.com).

- A project being tested at the Diego Garcia Naval Base in the Indian Ocean will generate electricity from temperature differences between the ocean's surface and deep water (source: Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists).

These examples represent a small sample of how the military is successfully implementing emerging green technology strategies. In fact, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2007 mandates that the Pentagon produce or procure 25% of its electrical consumption from renewable sources (source: Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists).

If you're an active duty service member who is interested in progressing their military career, a background in emerging green technologies may be an ideal way to distinguish yourself. Ready to learn more? Check out renewable energy courses and decide if a background in renewable green energy is the right path for you.

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Posted by Danielle Darany @ 12:17 PM • 0 comments

A Guide to Military Education Assistance Programs

Monday, December 7, 2009

Military service members have many options when it comes to getting the education they need to prepare for their post-military career or military promotion. Military education assistance programs can be used to support their educational endeavors by covering part, if not all, of their tuition costs.


Military education assistance programs are designed to serve the needs of men and women in the military who are pursuing higher education. They are designed to provide service members and their families with financial options for their education. These military-friendly assistance programs may cover 100% of their tuition costs as well as fees associated with getting an education.

Here are a few examples of available military education assistance programs:


Military Tuition Assistance – Congress has authorized the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Air Force to pay up to 100 percent of tuition expenses for eligible members. Each service has different criteria for eligibility and the application process. The money awarded is normally paid directly to the school of choice.

There is also a MTA Top Up program that can help pay for more expensive education courses.

Montgomery GI Bill – The Montgomery GI Bill helps active service members get as much as $72,900 for education and/or up to 36 months of veteran education benefits. They can use these funds toward degree and certificate programs, as well as other kinds of training. Additionally, the Montgomery GI Bill offers benefits to Select Reserve Members.

Post 9/11 GI Bill – The Post 9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for education and housing to individuals with at least 90 days of service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. They must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

There is a special provision in the Post-9/11 GI Bill that offers education benefits for the spouses and children of service members and veterans. Under the new law, the Department of Defense is authorized to allow individuals who have served at least six years in the Armed Forces and who agree to serve at least another four years to transfer unused GI Bill entitlement to their spouse. In addition, when a service member reaches their 10-year anniversary, they can choose to transfer the benefit to any dependents, including spouse or children.

Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program – Even family members of veterans may be eligible for military education assistance programs. Qualified candidates can receive up to 45 months of education benefits. These benefits may be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training.

There are many options when it comes to military education assistance programs. Service members or their family members should conduct research if they want to determine which program best suits their needs. There are old and new programs available to help them pursue their education and career goals, with little or no out-of-pockets costs to them.


For the latest information concerning military education benefits and procedures, please visit your education counseling office.

This article is based on publicly-accessible information and has not been reviewed or approved by any military branch.

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Posted by Allied Blogger Admin @ 4:09 PM • 0 comments

Maximize Your Military Education Options

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

For those serving in the Armed Forces, one of the greatest perks of the job is education assistance, which is available through an array of programs. The funds can be used to enroll in online courses, which are a flexible option that fits the military lifestyle.

 Each branch has its own criteria for determining eligibility and the application process. Congress has authorized the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Air Force to pay up to 100 percent of tuition expenses for those who qualify.  


You might want to check out these programs to see how you can maximize your benefits:

Montgomery GI Bill - This helps active service members obtain as much as $72,900 for education and/or up to 36 months of education benefits for veterans. The funds can be put toward degree and certificate programs as well as other types of training.

Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program - Military family members may be able to qualify for assistance. Those who are eligible can get up to 45 months of education benefits.

If you are interested in obtaining a degree online, it will benefit you to gather all the education information you can so that you can make an informed choice as to where you study and what program you want to take part in.

Here are some key questions to ask regarding any given program:

1) Will Military TA or the GI Bill cover costs for these courses?
2) Have they been accredited by a recognized accreditation agency?
3) Does the school give academic credit for Military schooling and experience?
4) Does the program offer enough flexibility for your needs?
5) Does the program match your career goals?
6) How long will the program take to complete?

Online Education and the Military = a Perfect Match: You may be stationed in a remote location where you aren't able to attend college classes. Or perhaps you're in a submarine deep in the ocean, or stationed on a ship at sea. With online education, you can regularly attend classes online; all you need is connectivity to the Internet.

In these types of circumstances, online education is ideal since it is flexible, convenient and virtual. You can schedule your education around your military duties and choose your own times to study. In as little as one or two years, you could have a degree.  

How to Find the Right Degree for your Military Background: Undoubtedly you have acquired some valuable skills, and you may be one of many who want to continue your studies through online education to enhance what you've learned. Here are some good choices for different sets of skills:

IT/Technology - If you are experienced with computers, you might consider working towards a degree in computer science, computer engineering, information technology or related fields. Depending on what you most enjoy, from working with databases to creating new software, look for a program that best suits your interests and skills.

Medical - Perhaps your military duty involves work in a medical capacity, in which case, you have quite a few options. For instance, you could choose to focus on alternative medicine, dental hygiene or nutrition, just to name a few.  

Law Enforcement - If your military role has involved “rounding up the troops,” you might enjoy pursuing a degree in criminal justice. You can improve your knowledge through courses in such fascinating subjects as forensics, psychology, ethics, and criminal prosecution.

Take advantage of these golden opportunities and reap the many benefits of studying, learning, and advancing your career options through online education!

To learn more about some of the education benefits available to you, please visit http://www.military.com/money-for-school/education-benefits-in-military.

*This article is based on publicly-accessible information and has not been reviewed or approved by any military branch.

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Posted by Allied Blogger Admin @ 1:57 PM • 0 comments